The Ayatollah Begs to Differ

Publisher's Summary

A Los Angeles Times and Economist Best Book of the Year.The grandson of an eminent ayatollah and the son of an Iranian diplomat, journalist Hooman Majd is uniquely qualified to explain contemporary Iran's complex and misunderstood culture to Western listeners. The Ayatollah Begs to Differ provides an intimate look at a paradoxical country that is both deeply religious and highly cosmopolitan, authoritarian yet informed by a history of democratic and reformist traditions.Majd offers an insightful tour of Iranian culture, introducing fascinating characters from all walks of life, including zealous government officials; tough female cab drivers; and open-minded, reformist ayatollahs. It's an Iran that will surprise readers and challenge Western stereotypes.

What the Critics Say

"Perhaps the best book yet written on the contradictions of contemporary Iran....It captures like no book in recent memory the ethos of the country, in elegant and precise prose." (Los Angeles Times)"Essential reading for anyone wanting to understand the paradox that is Iran (as well as America) in the post-Bush world." (GQ)

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